Is Autism A Disability
By: Vanessa Blanchard
Not always.
Autism is a (common) largely genetic condition that results in a range of developmental delays. It can be disabling, especially in an environment filled with harsh sensory and social demands. Co-occurring conditions can contribute to the disability autistic kids might experience.
You’ll notice that autistic people can be very talented and capable in some areas and struggle in other, more surprising areas. This is sometimes referred to as a spiky talent profile.
For example, your autistic child might be able to read at a very early age but struggle with the motor skills necessary to tie their shoes.
Is Autism Neurological?
Yes. Autistic brains have structural differences that cause some of the issues experienced. Part of this structural difference occurs in the limbic system, which controls things like learning, memory, sensory processing, emotional regulation, and our fight or flight responses.
Is Autism an Intellectual Disability?
No. Intellectual disabilities are found within autism, but they can occur outside of autism and autism can present itself without an intellectual impairment.
The concept of intelligence also comes with a lot of negative stereotypes, too. For example, it is often assumed that non-verbal autistic kids don’t think, which has been proven wrong by countless autistic authors. People also assume that people can be “too smart” to be autistic or to struggle with school or daily functioning.
Can I apply for a Social Security Disability Benefits?
Your child might be eligible for social security disability benefits.
What to Do
Assume that your child is capable, even if they are delayed or struggling. Even lifelong impairments can improve with support and patient skill building.
What Not to Do
Don’t assume your child isn’t trying if they’re bad at random things. Being good at some things doesn’t erase the struggles found in other areas.
Don’t label your kids as having a mentality younger than their actual age. It’s called infantilizing and it’s dehumanizing. The only people who have the mentality of a 12-year-old are people who are actually 12 years old, even if they have intellectual disabilities.
About the writer
I’m a writer, artist, and advocate who loves living in Maine among the trees and oceanside villages. I’m also autistic, ADHD, and PTSD. My education, both academic and personal, has centered around mental health and neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as discrimination and the socioeconomic consequences of living disabled in America. I work to plant seeds and spread ideas through my writing. You can find me on Twitter @ladysnessa.